The Nigerian Senate descended into a rowdy session on Wednesday as lawmakers exchanged heated words over the confirmation of Michael Odey, a Cross River State indigene, as Chairman of the Rivers State Independent Electoral Commission (RSIEC).
Odey’s appointment stirred strong opposition from senators who questioned the rationale behind selecting a non-indigene to supervise elections in the politically sensitive Rivers State.
Opposition Senators Raise Red Flags
Senator Abdul Ningi (PDP, Bauchi Central) led the dissent, insisting the move was both insensitive and provocative.
- “Are there no capable people left in Rivers? Let it be on record that I, Senator Abdul Ningi, stood against this decision,” he declared.
- Senator Ali Ndume (APC, Borno South), who backed him, warned that appointing someone from outside the state could alienate locals and further fuel political tension.
- “There are qualified people in Rivers. This sends the wrong message to the people,” he said.
- Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro (PDP, Benue South) also voiced concerns, urging sensitivity in handling matters related to the volatile political climate in Rivers State.
Legal Backing and Defence of Appointment
Despite the uproar, several lawmakers defended the nomination, citing constitutional backing. Senate Chief Whip Tahir Monguno (APC, Borno North) argued:
“Any Nigerian can serve in any state. If the people of Benue elect me as governor, it’s their choice.”
Deputy Senate President, Jibrin Barau, supported this view, noting that precedents exist where non-indigenes have served in similar roles across states without controversy.
Senate Committee Clarifies Neutrality Rationale
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele, who chaired the Ad-Hoc Committee on Emergency Rule in Rivers State, explained that Odey was nominated based on legal and constitutional compliance.
He clarified that six of the seven confirmed RSIEC members were Rivers State indigenes, and Odey was appointed to ensure neutrality in an already politically charged environment.
“This decision was carefully considered to maintain fairness and transparency in the state’s electoral process,” Bamidele said.
Confirmation Despite Protest
The Senate eventually confirmed Michael Odey by voice vote, along with other RSIEC nominees:
- Lezaasi Lenee Torbira
- Professor Arthur Nwafor
- Professor Godfrey Woke Mbudiogha
- Professor Joyce Akaniwor
- Dr Olive Bruce
- Professor Chidi Halliday
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The Red Chamber also confirmed appointees to the Rivers State Local Government Civil Service Commission and the Primary Healthcare Management Board.
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